Delaware begins free flu inoculations

Gov. John Carney was one of several hundred Delawareans who rolled up their sleeves Tuesday to receive a free flu shot

The drive-through clinic was held in DelDOT’s parking lot on Bay Road in Dover; anyone could drive up to one of several stations to receive the inoculation without even leaving their vehicles.

The event was sponsored by the Department of Public Health in conjunction with Bayhealth.

Carney received his shot from Dr. Kara Odom Walker, secretary of the Department of Health and Social Services.

DPH ran the flu clinic as a preparedness exercise, so its staff could practice their readiness in the event of a large-scale health emergency.

Carney noted the flu is unpredictable and can be deadly, adding that getting an annual flu shot is the best protection from getting the disease. Flu shots also protect the individual as well as family, friends, and co-workers.

Odom Walker noted during the 2016-2017 flu season, there were more than 4,500 flu cases reported in Delaware and15 flu-related deaths.

There will be additional flu clinics throughout the state. The schedule may be found online at flu.delaware.gov or by calling DPH at 800-282=8672.